What is the ‘Internet of Things’ and How Does It Affect You?

October 3, 2016

“Smart” appliances and devices are increasingly becoming connected to the Internet as well as to each other.

You may be hearing a lot of people talking about the “Internet of Things”. Just what is the Internet of Things, and how will it affect businesses and individuals? Let’s take a look at this new phenomenon and discuss what it means for you.

What is The Internet of Things?

Basically, the Internet of Things is the concept of several devices that are connected to each other and have an on/off switch. This can be things that we normally think of as utilizing the Internet, such as computers and cell phones. It can also be other devices that use the Internet, like coffee makers, washing machines, headphones, wearables devices, and more! This essentially creates a network of “things” that can all connect with the Internet and with each other. So, suppose you use your cell phone to set the time your coffee maker turns on and the temperature that the water should be. That’s the Internet of Things!

What Does This Mean for You?

According to the analyst firm Gartner, there will be over 26 billion connected devices by 2020. Society is moving towards a greater number of connected devices that will have an effect on our daily lives. This means that your car could automatically take you on the fastest route to work and automatically send a text to your employer if you’re running late. Or your office could automatically order supplies when you’re running low.

On a broader scale, the Internet of Things could be applied towards civil engineering, creating “smart” cities that reduce waste and improve efficiency. A greater connection of devices makes it easier to monitor and control important parts of society. For example, traffic congestion can be monitored to offer better alternative routes, and carbon emissions could be controlled better for cleaner energy.

Of course, as with all technological progress, there are certain things that many worry about. With so many connected devices, people wonder how they can keep their information secure. Security companies are working hard at keeping pace with developing technologies. The best thing to do is to make sure that your network security and other security systems are completely up-to-date. Then, you can sit back, relax, and let your coffee maker brew you a relaxing cup of coffee while your cell phone sets up your appointments!

Get in Touch with FiberPlus

FiberPlus has been providing data communication services for a number of different markets through fiber optics since 1992. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a top telecommunications business that can provide the Richmond, VA, Columbus, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, Baltimore, MD, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia areas with a number of different services. These services now include:

Structured Cabling

Electronic Security Systems

Distributed Antenna Systems

Audio/Visual Services

Support Services

Specialty Systems

Design/Build Services

FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.

Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page.